“He Earned His Place”- Otto Addo Defends Benjamin Asare
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has come to the defense of Benjamin Asare, insisting the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper fully deserves his place as Ghana’s number one goalkeeper in the World Cup qualifiers.
Asare’s inclusion has sparked debate among sections of the Ghanaian football fraternity, with some questioning his selection over other goalkeeping options. However, Addo maintains that the 29-year-old earned his spot through hard work, consistency, and impressive performances during the qualifiers.
“He trained well. He had an extremely good week when he came in and I said it was enough to give him a chance. When we gave him a chance, he proved it,” Addo told Joy Sports.
Since making his debut in March 2025, Asare has been one of Ghana’s most reliable performers, keeping five clean sheets in six matches throughout the World Cup qualifying campaign. His composure, reflexes, and leadership from the back have been key to the Black Stars’ success.
Addo expressed disbelief at the criticism directed toward the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, especially given the team’s recent achievements.
“It’s normal that players will be criticized, but I don’t understand this discussion, especially after we qualified,” he added.
Ghana sealed their spot at the 2026 World Cup with a narrow 1–0 victory over Comoros at the Accra Sports Stadium, finishing top of Group I. Asare’s performances were pivotal in that campaign, further justifying his selection.
As preparations for the global tournament intensify, Addo reaffirmed his trust in the shot-stopper, describing him as one of the squad’s most disciplined and dependable members.
The Black Stars will find out their group-stage opponents when the official World Cup draw takes place on December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
